Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo continues to be linked with a move to the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea ahead of the summer transfer window.
Both London clubs saw mega-money offers for the Ecuadorian international rebuffed by the Seagulls during the January window before the player eventually signed a new long-term contract at the Amex Stadium. But comments from Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi in recent weeks have suggested that the Italian is open to allowing Caicedo leave this summer if the price is right.
"I think that can be the last game of Alexis (Mac Allister) and Moises, I’m really sorry," De Zerbi admitted after his side played Aston Villa in their final Premier League fixture of the 2022/23 campaign. "They are two great people and two great players.
"The policy of Brighton is like this. I think it’s right they can leave, can change teams and play in a level higher."
Now, the Telegraph have reported that it will be huge money indeed to prise the 21-year-old away from the south coast club, who are said to be demanding 'significantly more' than £70million for the talented midfielder. The report goes on to claim that Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are all interested in signing the versatile youngster whilst Liverpool may even enter the race depending on the Reds' financial situation.
football.london understands the Blues will push to sign Caicedo but negotiations will not be easy, considering Brighton have established themselves as one of the Premier League's toughest negotiators in recent years. Arsenal's priority target meanwhile is West Ham United captain Declan Rice, football.london understands.
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Mikel Arteta's side is keen to bolster their options in the centre of the park and Rice is seen as the leading candidate, although the likes of United and Bayern Munich have also been linked with the England international in recent times. football.london reported last month that the Hammers captain remains a key target for Chelsea but the player has made it no secret of his desire to play in the UEFA Champions League, a competition that, unlike Arteta and Co, Mauricio Pochettino's men won't be playing in next season.
"100% I want to play in the Champions League," Rice said back in November. "For the last two or three years I've been saying that.
"I've been playing consistently well for my club and I feel like I really want to keep pushing. I see my friends here who are playing Champions League and for big trophies.
"You only get one career and at the end you want to look back at what you've won and the biggest games you've played in."
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